HEALTH INFORMATION

Pregnancy: Belly, Pelvic, and Back Pain

Topic Overview

Pelvic pain and problems urinating may mean you have a
bladder infection. Flank pain with fever and urinary symptoms
may mean you have a
kidney infection (pyelonephritis). Flank pain is felt just below the rib cage and above the waist. It can be on one or both sides of the back. If you have pelvic
or flank pain and other symptoms of a bladder or kidney infection, call your
doctor.

An
ectopic pregnancy (tubal pregnancy or extrauterine
pregnancy) occurs when a fertilized egg attaches (implants) to an area outside
of the
uterus. Belly or pelvic pain that occurs with a missed
period early in pregnancy is the most common symptom of ectopic pregnancy and
occurs in about 75% of women who have an ectopic pregnancy.

In an
ectopic pregnancy, the fertilized egg may implant in a fallopian tube, ovary,
or in the abdomen. These organs can't hold the growing baby. Pain develops
when the baby grows and the organ is not able to stretch bigger.

Pelvic or lower belly pain caused by ectopic pregnancy may get worse when
you move or strain. The pain may occur sharply on one side at first and then
spread across the pelvis.

Severe cramps during pregnancy, with or
without heavy bleeding, may be a sign of a
miscarriage. The cramping can be so severe that you
cannot move, or it can be mild. You may also pass large blood clots or gray or
pink tissue.

Belly pain during later pregnancy, especially close
to delivery, can be caused by other problems, such as premature labor or
placenta abruptio. Call your doctor for instructions
if you have moderate to severe belly pain at any time during your
pregnancy.

Topic Contents

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